Tommy Hilfiger and Harlem Fashion Row Launch New Initiative for Black Fashion Designers
With the opportunity to win $20,000 USD and more.
Tommy Hilfiger and Harlem Fashion Row have teamed up for a new initiative to amplify emerging Black fashion designers. Titled New Legacy Challenge, the design competition is a part of Hilfiger’s People’s Place Program.
The New Legacy Challenge began in 2021 by encouraging designers to showcase their thoughts on contemporary prep styles. Out of the top 12 applicants who exhibited their work in a virtual showcase, three finalists were selected for the last round. Under the mentorship of Tommy Hilfiger, the three finalists will reenvision six prep styles including a spring varsity jacket, polo, hoodie and more before presenting their final collections in March.
“Tommy Hilfiger’s People’s Place Program offers a dynamic opportunity for talented designers of color, who have long been side-lined in the fashion industry,” said Brandice Daniel, CEO & Founder of Harlem’s Fashion Row. “We are proud partners of this program because it promotes true foundational change. The partnership is also our way of amplifying the voices of the next generation of black designers.”
Moving on to the final round, the finalists are Megan Smith of contemporary womenswear brand Megan Renee, Johnathan Hayden of his eponymous luxury women’s separates brand and Clarence Ruth of denim-based brand Cotte D’Armes. Following the final showcase, the winner of New Legacy Challenge will receive a grant for $20,000 USD and the opportunity to co-design a capsule collection with the Tommy Hilfiger team.
In case you missed it, check out the 10 emerging Black fashion designers to watch out for.
